Reflecting the Spirit of Modern-Indonesia through Architecture: The Icono-Symbolical Meanings of Jengki Architectural Style Case Studies: Bandung Polytechnic of Health Building and Bumi Sangkuriang Meeting Hall in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia

Abstract

The architectural discourse in Indonesia generally focuses on traditional architecture that represents specific regional icons, the synthesis of traditional architecture with European-style architecture, and modern architecture inspired by International Style. This research focuses on the architectural style in Indonesia which flourished in the 1950s, known as the Jengki architectural style. This architectural style is essential in the history of Indonesian architecture, considering that the style reflects the spirit of nationalism and post-colonial Indonesian. This research aims to explore the icons of Jengki architecture, by elucidating the architectural concepts that underlie the two oldest Jengki buildings in Bandung, West Java. The analysis showed that the characteristics of this architectural style shown by the configuration of architectural elements resembling the form of a pentagon, mostly asymmetrical in spatial layout, playful articulation of ornaments, and the use of local materials. The pentagon becomes an icon of Pancasila, which is a foundational principle of the new Indonesian state and symbolize the meaning of nationalism. Thus, the icon which also represents symbolic meaning becomes an essential aspect in the design of Jengki-style buildings in the future. This icon can be an alternative to be applied to modern buildings that are intended to display national icons, rather than particular regional icons. Besides enriching the architectural knowledge of Indonesian architecture, the results of this study are beneficial to architectural practitioners, stakeholders, and architectural conservationists as well.